Preserved Foods of the Miao People

Preserved Foods of the Miao People

　　Preserved Fish　　is a traditional delicacy served by the Miao people to guests. It is bright in color, rich in flavor, and refreshingly delicious. The Miao people often raise carp in their rice paddies. When the fish are caught, they are cleaned, gutted, then seasoned with an appropriate amount of salt and chili powder, along with other spices such as Sichuan peppercorn. The fish are then marinated and dried over a fire until semi-dry, before being coated with prepared sweet wine or layered with glutinous rice flour. The fish and sweet wine lees are stacked alternately in a jar, which is then tightly sealed. After about half a month, the fish can be taken out and either pan-fried or eaten raw. Preserved fish that has aged for over a year will have softened bones, and the flesh will develop a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and salty flavors, offering a uniquely tasteful experience.

　　　　Preserved Meat　　is made by slicing fresh meat into lean and fatty pieces. These slices are layered with glutinous rice flour mixed with an appropriate amount of salt and chili powder, along with other spices such as Sichuan peppercorn. The meat and rice powder are stacked alternately in a jar, which is then sealed. After half a month, it can be taken out and stir-fried—offering a fragrant and delicious taste.